Wireless Interference

The Albion College wireless network transmits on the standard 2.4 ghz and 5 ghz radio frequencies. These radio waves are subject to interference from active and passive sources. Knowing about the sources of such radio interference can help you position your wireless devices to limit or avoid interference.

Active Sources of Wireless Interference:

An active source of wireless interference is usually a device that emits a radio signal on the same 2.4 ghz frequency as the wireless network. Below is a list of common devices that can emit 2.4 ghz radio signals and can thus be potential sourches of wireless interference:

Video Players - Devices such as AppleTV, Chromecast, or Roku players frequently transmit on the same frequencies as wireless.

If you find that you have a poor or inconsistent wireless signal in your room, see if you have any of these devices nearby. In most cases, simply moving your wireless device farther away from the source of interference is enough to solve the problem.

Sometimes, however, it is necessary to remove the interfering device from the environment. This step can be problematic if the device is immovable or doesn't belong to you. Under such circumstances, testing your wireless device in various locations may be your only option.

Tips to improve wireless access:

Place a work request, or contact the
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. IT can resolve many connection issues, if we know you are having trouble.

Replace, or relocate, your microwave - The biggest cause of interference in residential wireless networks are old or poorly shielded microwave ovens. A microwave that causes such interference is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.

Moving your device closer to the hallway will improve signal strength. The access points in the hallways are generally easy to see – place your device so that there are the fewest possible number of obstructions between the device and the access point.

Turn around – the Human Body is a great absorber of radio frequencies. Make sure you do not place yourself between the device and the access point.

Turn off interfering wireless devices – Bluetooth devices, gamebox controllers, smart TV’s, and other wireless electronics cause interference on the wifi. Powering these down when not in use will reduce interference.

Update your drivers – make sure your laptop has the most current drivers for the wireless connection. Visit the Helpdesk if you need assistance.

Switch to 5 ghz – the 5 ghz channel is less susceptible to interference. Most newer laptops are able to choose between 2.4 ghz and 5 ghz. Visit the Helpdesk if you need assistance.

VMware (virtual network)

VMware is a virtualization technology which allows you to connect to your Albion office/lab machine when you are home or traveling so you may access the Albion network as you would on campus.

Ruth Reese
Senior Accountant
517/629-0679
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Constituent Information Request Program

Purpose & Objectives

The Office of Institutional Advancement (IA) acknowledges the need for Albion College departments, institutes, centers, and other campus entities to have reasonable access to the contact information of alumni, parents, and friends. This document aims to provide a standardized information request process that is efficient, that is user-friendly, and that facilitates information sharing between Albion College entities.

Enable them to communicate more effectively and thoroughly with their audiences;

Provide them with additional confidence in the accuracy of the contact information they are using;

Increase the overall level of engagement between Albion College and its constituencies;

Equip IA staff members with information that can help them to strategically engage constituents; and

Ensure more consistency and unity in the College's communications with constituents.

Eligible Partners

IA partners that are covered under this program include, but are not necessarily limited to:

Academic Departments

Alumni Association Board Members

Alumni Chapter Leadership

Alumni Reunion Volunteers

Athletic Team Staff Members

Board of Trustees Members

Campus Programs & Organizations Staff Members

Development Committees

Greek Organization Staff Members

Institutes & Programs of Distinction Staff Members

Parent Leadership Council Members

Student Group Advisors

Process

The following is the process by which contact information can be requested.

The requester agrees to the terms of the confidentiality statement and the agreement on appropriate use of the requested information.

A faculty or staff member or College volunteer submits a written request to the Assistant Director of Advancement Services via an online form. If the requester is an employee, his / her division head must be copied on the request. If the requester is not an employee, he / she should have a faculty or staff member sponsor. The Assistant Director of Advancement Services will notify other IA units as appropriate.

Advancement Services works with IT to create the list and distributes an Excel spreadsheet to the requester. IA asks for two weeks' notice on requests when possible.

Data Verification: Each requester is asked to submit the names of five people who should be on the requested list and five who are not to help ensure the data's accuracy. Data integrity is a shared responsibility.

When appropriate, Marketing and Communications provides design templates and guidelines.